What is osteoporosis? It is one of the most common bone diseases in the world. Women and men over fifty are much more susceptible to breaking a bone due to osteoporosis. The disease affects many people, but it may surprise you that you can do things, even as an older adult, to reduce your risk. If you or a loved one has already experienced an osteoporosis-related injury, there are still things you can do to prevent the disease from progressing. Keeping your bones healthy can also prevent falls, reducing the need for hospital stays or rehabilitation services for seniors.
What Is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis occurs when bones become porous and lose density, making them more likely to break. Most people will only learn that they have the condition once they have already suffered a broken bone, although preventative bone density scans are becoming more and more common. Early diagnosis is essential because, statistically, once someone has broken a bone, it becomes more likely that another will break. This can be especially problematic for older adults because suffering a broken bone can potentially lead to more severe complications, disability, and even early death.
Preventing Osteoporosis for Older Adults
The best time to prevent osteoporosis is during early life by eating a diet rich in vitamins and nutrients that will help build strong, dense bones. However, it’s never too late to start prioritizing bone health. Here are some ways that seniors can promote healthy bones:
- Ensure you are getting enough calcium, protein, and vitamin D. Older adults might not be able to absorb these nutrients as well as they used to, so it can help to ask your doctor about supplements.
- Take part in exercises that promote strength, balance, and flexibility. Being strong and in good shape can help prevent falls, which can prevent broken bones.
- Evaluate your living space for fall risks and ensure that your home isn’t hiding any dangerous spots that could increase your chances of falling.
Preventing osteoporosis with these management techniques can help seniors maintain healthy bones and enhance their overall health and wellness.
Nutrition for Healthy Bones
The most important thing to do to prevent osteoporosis for seniors is to focus on getting excellent nutrition. Maintaining a healthy body weight and giving your body what it needs to stay strong and in the best condition is the best defense against breaking bones or losing bone mass. The key elements to look for are protein, calcium, and vitamin D, but eating a healthy and well-balanced diet, in general, is a great choice. Some things to include in your diet are:
- Salmon – High in vitamin D
- Milk, cheese, or yogurt – Rich in calcium
- Meats, beans, and dairy products – High in protein
- Dark green vegetables – Rich in many bone-healthy vitamins
- Nuts – Great source of protein and unsaturated fat
Eating nutritious foods like these can support bone health and reduce susceptibility to osteoporosis for older adults. Seniors can reduce the risk of fractures by taking the necessary steps to prevent osteoporosis and maintain their independence and mobility.
Ventana: Rehabilitation Services for Seniors in Dallas
Our senior living community in Dallas is committed to helping you or your loved one get back to doing what you love and enjoying all that life has to offer. Getting great rehabilitation care is critical to achieving a full and lasting recovery for seniors recovering from an injury or surgery. Our members are our greatest asset; we love seeing them healthy and doing well. If you or someone you care about needs rehabilitation services, contact our caring and knowledgeable staff today at 214.225.6197 or online to learn more about what we offer.